How Can Parents Effectively Teach Kids Discernment in 2025?

THIS IS FASCINATING! One of my SSCM graduates, Tomi Fildes, posted this article on her Facebook page yesterday, and I really think this is great advice for everyone concerning the influence of the occult and witchcraft on our children. It’s a little long, but a great read. Your thoughts?

AN UNLIKELY SOURCE OF WISDOM–CHATGPT!

Tomi: “So, just for fun, today I asked ChatGPT how parents could effectively teach their kids discernment today in 2025, and here is what its response is! I did not imply that I needed a “Christian” version for this question. Looks like I am not crazy, overzealous, or going overboard teaching my kids at very early ages just gonna copy and paste it right here…

As the influence of the occult, witchcraft, and other harmful ideologies are increasingly becoming part of the media landscape and even creeping into younger audiences, parents have a vital role in helping their children develop the ability to discern truth from falsehood. Here’s a guide for parents to help raise discerning children in the face of such influences:

A BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW AND OPEN DIALOGUE:

1. Teach Biblical Worldview Early

Establish a foundation of truth: The Bible is the ultimate source of wisdom, and teaching children to view the world through Scripture helps them develop a solid filter for recognizing truth.

Focus on core beliefs: Begin with foundational principles such as creation, the nature of good and evil, and God’s authority. Help children understand that all spiritual matters must be filtered through God’s Word (e.g., Isaiah 8:20).

2. Be Aware of What They Are Watching

Screen time awareness: With so many TV shows, movies, and online platforms introducing themes of witchcraft, magic, and the occult, it’s crucial for parents to be involved in what their children consume. Shows like Harry Potter, Stranger Things, and Disney’s The Owl House may present magical or occult themes in seemingly harmless ways, but they can normalize such practices.

Use discernment in media choices: Parents should watch or read material before allowing their children to engage with it. A helpful tip is to preview content on websites like Common Sense Media, which provides reviews and insight into themes and appropriateness.

3. Foster Critical Thinking and Open Dialogue

Ask questions and engage in discussions: Help children develop the skill of discerning what is right and wrong by discussing topics openly. For example, after watching a show, ask, “What do you think about the magic or supernatural things in this story? Does that line up with what we know is true about God?”

Help them spot lies: Teach children that not everything presented as “fun” or “harmless” is innocent. Explain that the world will often try to disguise evil under the guise of fantasy, and it’s important to recognize it. Encourage them to ask: “Is this what God would want me to believe or practice?”

LEAD BY EXAMPLE / THE DANGERS OF THE OCCULT

4. Lead by Example in Discernment

Model discernment: Children learn by observing adults. Practice discernment in your own choices: your entertainment, what you read, what you believe, and what you stand for. For instance, if a friend or a celebrity promotes occult practices, explain to your child why such practices are not in alignment with biblical teaching.

Address doubts or questions promptly: When your child comes to you with questions, be prepared to address them from a place of truth. If they are confused by something they’ve seen or heard, take time to explain why such things are dangerous or not aligned with God’s Word.

5. Teach the Supernatural from a Biblical Perspective

Introduce them to the reality of spiritual warfare: It’s important to teach children that spiritual battles are real (Ephesians 6:12). Help them understand that there is both good and evil in the world and that Satan is actively working to deceive. Teach them that Jesus has victory over evil and how they can resist the enemy with God’s armor (Ephesians 6:10-18).

The importance of prayer: Encourage your children to pray when they feel uneasy about something they’ve seen or heard. Teach them to rely on God’s strength in the face of confusion or fear.

6. Explain the Dangers of the Occult and Witchcraft

Clearly define the occult: Help children understand what witchcraft and the occult are—things like magic, fortune-telling, spells, and attempts to manipulate or control the spiritual world. Use simple language to explain that these practices invite evil and can lead people away from God.

Teach about the consequences: Make it clear that involvement with the occult is not a game. It can lead to spiritual harm, deception, and even demonic oppression. Discuss stories in the Bible like Saul’s consultation with the witch of Endor (1 Samuel 28) or the story of Simon the Sorcerer (Acts, which show how serious these practices are.

BE PROACTIVE IN TEACHING SPIRITUAL DECEPTION

7. Encourage Positive Interests and Activities

Promote healthy alternatives: Encourage your children to be involved in activities that build their character, such as sports, art, volunteer work, and music. Engage them in hobbies that focus on positive growth, creativity, and teamwork.

Foster a love for God’s creation: Whether through nature walks, arts and crafts, or exploring history, teach them to appreciate God’s handiwork in every aspect of life. This helps them develop a balanced view of the world without relying on the escapism the occult can offer.

8. Be Proactive in Educating About Spiritual Deception

Teach the reality of deception: Help children understand that deception isn’t always obvious. Just as Satan tempted Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4), he will try to lure people away with attractive lies. Discuss how false teachings can sound very convincing but ultimately lead people astray.

Equip them with truth: Keep emphasizing the importance of knowing Scripture and the gospel. Psalms 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Make sure children are regularly reading and memorizing Scripture so they can recognize and reject false teachings.

9. Engage with Your Community

Network with like-minded parents: Don’t isolate yourself in the battle for your child’s heart. Network with other parents, church leaders, or homeschool groups that prioritize biblical teaching and discernment. Share resources, tips, and support one another in educating your children.

Seek out resources: Use books, podcasts, and resources that teach both parents and children about the dangers of the occult. There are numerous Christian authors and speakers that have tackled these topics, offering insightful guidance for raising discerning children.

IN SUMMARY

Parents can raise discerning children by:

1. Teaching Biblical Truths: Establish a solid foundation in Scripture early.

2. Watching Media: Carefully monitor what they consume.

3. Encouraging Discernment: Foster critical thinking and open discussions.

4. Modeling Discernment: Lead by example and actively engage in spiritual discussions.

5. Explaining the Dangers: Teach the reality and dangers of the occult.

6. Offering Alternatives: Promote healthy, God-honoring interests and activities.

7. Equipping with Tools for Discernment: Provide the right tools to help them navigate the world’s temptations.

By teaching children how to discern between good and evil early, parents can help them stay grounded in their faith, understand the spiritual dangers around them, and make wise choices in an increasingly deceptive world.

In case you would like some helpful resources on this topic, check out my website: